Knowledge Attitude And Practices About Family Planning Methods Among Postpartum Mothers And Challenges Faced By The Service Providers At A Tertiary Care Hospital- A Mixed Method Study

Abstract: Background: According to the fifth National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), only 66.7% of married women were using family planning methods. In addition, there are numerous obstacles faced by the family planning unit service providers in making beneficiaries utilize these services. Objectives: To assess the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices about family planning methods among postpartum mothers. To explore the challenges faced by the service providers of family planning unit. Methodology: Study design: Facility-based mixed method study Quantitative part: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the postpartum ward of KGH, Visakhapatnam among 156 mothers by convenient sampling technique using a pre-tested semi-structured interview schedule. Qualitative part: The service providers of family planning unit of KGH, Visakhapatnam were interviewed using an in-depth interview guide. Results: The Knowledge and Practices regarding family planning methods among postpartum mothers is 81.4% & 48.7% respectively, the most common reason for non-usage being want for children. Service providers faced challenges related to counselling, service, and infrastructure in the health care facility. Conclusion: This study emphasizes that knowledge regarding family planning methods need not necessarily result in their usage.